Seasonal Animal Care Specialist- Hoofstock

Seasonal Animal Care Specialist – Hoofstock Job Category : Animal Care Requisition Number : SEASO002048 Location Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) – Denver, Colorado Role Overview The Seasonal Animal Care Specialist will support DZCA’s mission by providing safe exhibition, handling, feeding, and husbandry to the Zoo’s collection animals, and support guest engagement goals including public demonstrations and talks. The hoofstock department includes a diverse collection of antelope, equid, giraffe, avian, and camelid species. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Adheres to and promotes DZCA’s mission, core values, and strategic initiatives. Provide innovative animal husbandry that complies with AZA and USDA standards. Provide reliable, competent animal care through: Preparation and feeding of approved diets. Monitoring of physical and behavioral aspects of the animals under assigned care. Implementation of the behavioral program of the animals under assigned care. Designing and maintaining proper animal enclosures, props, and exhibits. Handling and restraining animals appropriately. Assisting with veterinary care and medical follow‑up as needed. Utilizing preventative husbandry techniques and providing proactive health care as required. Providing proper care for eggs, neonates, and young. Capture, handle, and move animals using accepted DZCA practices to facilitate internal movement, external shipping, medical procedures, or normal routines. Enhance breeding possibilities through recommended animal management techniques such as breeding efforts, behavioral enrichment, and operant conditioning. Interact with DZCA guests in formal and informal settings, providing insight about the animals and their care. Provide area tours, keeper talks, and work special events in area of responsibility as needed. Coordinate contractors and maintenance staff when working in animal areas. Record data and prepare assigned reports and logs (e.g., daily reports, enclosure logs, facility logs, water quality logs). Cooperate with other departments (e.g., education, maintenance, horticulture) and outside contractors. Maintain professional working relationships with zoo team members and maintain a professional appearance. Actively participate in conservation, research projects, and educational programs as requested. Participate in and support zoo-wide initiatives, committees, and work groups. Follow safety protocols and demonstrate commitment to DZCA's Safety & Sustainability Policies. Other Responsibilities and Duties Maintain flexibility and a positive attitude in a dynamic work environment. Successfully complete multiple tasks within deadlines. Work outside in varying climates. Perform various tasks as assigned. Technical / Professional Requirements & Qualifications Working toward or completion of a degree in Zoo Animal Technology, Biology, or a related science-based field. Experience with exotic animal care is required; experience at an AZA‑accredited institution is highly preferred. Ability, with proper training, to work in all aspects of animal care, husbandry, and training within the department assigned. Work on weekends and holidays is required. Position Conditions A cover letter is required to be considered for this position. Must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record. Ability to pass a background check, pre‑employment drug & alcohol screen. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. TB Test required. Compensation $19.30 per hour. Benefits Family DZCA Membership – Bring your crew and explore. Exclusive Discounts – Save on concessions and retail. 403(b) Retirement Account – Plan for your future. Length of Position and Hours This seasonal, hourly position begins as soon as possible and continues through December 31, 2026. Hours are scheduled weekly as determined by the work group, with additional hours for special circumstances or events. Applicants must be available to work weekends, holidays, and some evenings. Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr Denver Zoological Foundation